Tony O'Neill and Dan Fante The authors of "Down and Out on Murder Mile" and "Kissed by a Fat Waitress," respectively, will read and sign their new novels. Skylight Books, 1818 N. Vermont Ave., L.A. 7:30 p.m. Free. (323) 660-1175.

David Wild The author of "He Is . . . I Say: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love Neil Diamond" will present and sign his new book about the legendary songsmith. Book Soup, 8818 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood. 7 p.m. Free. (310) 659-3110.

SATURDAYAdam Braver The author of "November 22, 1963" will present his new book about the Kennedy assassination. Soup, 8818 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood. 5 p.m. Free. (310) 659-3110.

Dashiell Hammett . . . in L.A.? Zócalo Public Square Lecture Series presents a panel of writers, Hammett family members and scholars in an event wrapping up a monthlong celebration of the author, whose many works of hard-boiled detective fiction include "The Maltese Falcon" and "The Thin Man." Gallery Theatre, Barnsdall Art Park, 4800 Hollywood Blvd., L.A. 11 a.m. Free. (213) 403-0416.

Steve Lopez The Times columnist and author of " The Soloist: A Lost Dream, an Unlikely Friendship and the Redemptive Power of Music" will read and sign his new book. Vroman’s Bookstore, 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. 4 p.m. Free. (626) 449-5320.